Taking a few moments to check your breasts regularly could be a lifesaver. By getting familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel, you empower yourself to spot any changes early on. By early detection, you give yourself the best shot at successful treatment, turning a small habit into a powerful tool for your health.

According to a 2024 study issued in the National Breast Cancer Foundation, it's vital to make breast self-exams a regular habit since 40 per cent of breast cancers are detected by women who notice a lump themselves, leading to early detection.

 

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What is Breast Self- Examination?

A breast self-exam is a simple, hands-on tool for early detection of breast cancer. By combining physical touch with a visual check, it helps you get to know the usual look and feel of your breasts. This practice, known as breast self-awareness, makes it easier to spot any changes, like new lumps or unusual skin changes. If you notice anything out of the ordinary during your self-exam, it's important to inform your healthcare provider promptly.

 

Related story: How to do a Breast Self-Exam

 

Frequency of Breast Self-Exam To Be Performed

Women of all ages are encouraged to perform a breast self-exam once a month. For those still menstruating, the best time is a few days after your period ends. If you're postmenopausal, pick a consistent day each month, like the 1st or 15th, to keep track.

While mammograms can catch cancer before a lump is felt, regular self-exams help you stay familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel. If you notice any changes—such as a new lump, soreness, skin changes, or nipple discharge—notify your healthcare provider immediately.

Breast self-exams and self-awareness are important components of breast health, but they should not be considered substitutes for other breast cancer screening methods. 

It is essential to complement breast self-exams with the following: 
- Regular physical exams by a doctor 
- Mammography 
- Ultrasound or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)

Each of these screening methods offers unique perspectives and, when used together, they provide a comprehensive understanding of any breast changes, contributing to early detection and effective management of breast health.

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5 Steps to Breast Self-Exam

Five-step breast exam can provide a structured approach to ensure you cover all aspects of your breast health. Some women may find that a routine helps them stay intentional about their self-exam.

 

Step 1: Examine Your Breasts in a Mirror with Hands-on Hips
Start by standing in front of a mirror with your shoulders straight and arms resting on your hips. This position allows you to have a clear view of your breasts. Here’s what to look for:

• Dimpling, puckering, or bulging of the skin
• A nipple that has changed position or an inverted nipple (pushed inward instead of protruding)
• Redness, soreness, rash, or swelling

 

Related story: Preventing Breast Cancer

 

Step 2: Raise Arms and Examine Your Breasts
Next, raise your arms above your head and observe your breasts in the mirror. This position can help you see any changes that may not be visible when your arms are at your sides. 

Here’s what to look for:

• Shape and size: Ensure your breasts maintain their usual shape and size.
• Skin changes: Check for any dimpling, puckering, or changes in the skin texture.
• Nipple changes: Look for any changes in the position of your nipples or any discharge.

 

Step 3: Look for Signs of Breast Fluid
After examining your breasts in the previous steps, it’s important to check for any signs of breast fluid. Gently squeeze each nipple to see if any fluid is discharged. Here’s what to consider:

• Discharge colour and consistency: Note the colour and consistency of any fluid. Clear, yellow, or milky fluid can be normal, but any bloody or unusual discharge should be reported to your healthcare provider.

 

Step 4: Feel for Breast Lumps While Lying Down
Now it's time to perform a physical examination. Lying down can help you feel your breasts more effectively. Here’s how to do it:

• Lie flat on your back with a pillow under your shoulder on the side you’re examining. This helps to flatten your breast tissue and makes it easier to feel for lumps.
• Use the pads of your fingers (not the tips) to gently feel your breast in a circular motion. Cover the entire breast area, including the armpit.
• Be on the lookout for any lumps or hard spots that feel different from the surrounding tissue. Pay attention to any areas that feel tender, painful, or unusual.

 

Step 5: Feel Your Breasts for Lumps While Showering
The shower can be an excellent time to perform a breast self-exam due to the ease of using soap and water. Here’s how to do it:

• Stand in the shower and allow warm water to run over your breasts. This helps relax the skin and can make it easier to feel for lumps.
• Apply a bit of soap to your fingers. This can help your fingers glide over your skin and make it easier to feel any abnormalities.

 

Related story: Does Fasting Help in Protection Against Cancer?

 

Performing regular breast self-exams is a proactive way to stay aware of your breast health. By examining your breasts visually, checking for fluid discharge, and feeling for lumps while lying down and in the shower—you can become familiar with the normal look and feel of your breasts. This self-awareness is crucial in identifying any changes early on.

Breast self-exams are not a substitute for professional screenings such as mammograms and physical exams. Always consult your healthcare provider if you notice any unusual changes, lumps, or fluid discharge. Staying informed and vigilant about your breast health is key to early detection and successful treatment.

 

Need all your wellness solutions in one place? A whole new world awaits just a click away.